Grinder Sandwich Recipe

 

Prep: 10 mins

Cook: 5 mins

Total: 15 mins

Servings: 2 servings

Yield: 1 to 2 grinders

A grinder sandwich is a classic New England sub, traditionally loaded with meats, cheese, shredded lettuce, and thinly-sliced veggies. This updated version features a special salad topping that combines the condiments and veggies into a creamy, crispy delight.

Ingredients

For the Salad Topping:

• 1/2 small head iceberg lettuce
• 1/4 medium red onion
• 1/3 cup sliced cherry peppers, or banana peppers
• 2 tablespoons sliced green olives, optional
• 1 heaping tablespoon finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, optional
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper

For the Sandwich:

• 1 large or 2 medium submarine sandwich rolls
• 4 to 6 slices provolone cheese
• 6 to 8 slices ham or turkey
• 4 to 6 slices salami
• 3 to 4 slices prosciutto
• 1 medium tomato, sliced
• 2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese

Steps to Make It

1. Prepare the Salad Topping:

   • Gather the ingredients.
   • Chop the iceberg lettuce into 1/2-inch ribbons. Thinly slice the red onion. Add both to a medium bowl.
   • Add the cherry peppers, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

2. Prepare the Sandwich:

   • Heat the broiler to high.
   • Use a serrated knife to split the roll(s) in half lengthwise, leaving the roll(s) attached on one side so that it opens like a book. Place on a rimmed baking sheet.
   • Place the cheese in a single layer on both halves of the open roll(s). Broil until melted, 2 to 3 minutes.
   • Top the melted cheese with layers of ham, salami, prosciutto, and tomato.
   • Top with a generous helping of the salad mixture. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
   • Close the sandwich(es), then slice in half, if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips

• Substitute for Italian Seasoning: Use 2 parts dried oregano and 1 part dried basil or thyme if you don't have Italian seasoning.
• Quality Ingredients: For a superior sandwich, use high-quality deli meats, cheeses, and bread. Italian-style hoagie rolls with a crisp exterior and a soft interior are best when making grinders.
• Extra Toasty: If you like extra toasty subs, you can toast the grinder again after adding the meats to heat them up.
• Onion Tip: To take some of the bite out of the onions (and help keep your breath fresh), soak the slices in cool water for about 10 minutes before using.
• Extra Salad: This recipe makes enough salad topping for about 4 sandwiches. Enjoy any leftover salad with potato chips. It makes a crispy, creamy dip.

How to Store

• Leftover Salad: Can be stored in a container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Assembling Ahead: If you're assembling the grinder ahead of time, skip melting the cheese and toasting the bread. Tightly wrap the roll topped with meat and cheese and store in the fridge for up to a day. Store the salad separately and add it just before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 1184
• Fat: 82g
• Carbs: 53g
• Protein: 58g